These nacho fries deliver everything you want in a snack or side: crispy fries, smoky seasoning, and a velvety cheese dip. They’re easy to make, customizable to your heat and spice preferences, and way better when made fresh. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, party snack, or late-night craving, they hit the spot every time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the fries:
Russet potatoes (or frozen fries as a shortcut)
Vegetable oil, for frying or baking
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Chili powder
Cumin
Salt
Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the nacho cheese sauce:
Butter
All-purpose flour
Whole milk
Cheddar cheese, shredded
American cheese or processed cheese (like Velveeta), cubed
Salt
Cayenne pepper or hot sauce (optional)
Directions
Prepare the fries:
If using fresh potatoes, wash, peel, and cut them into thin fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry thoroughly.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the potatoes in batches until golden and crispy, about 3–5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
Make the seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper.
Toss the hot fries with the seasoning mix immediately after frying or baking.
Prepare the nacho cheese sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add shredded cheddar and American cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and cayenne or hot sauce to taste.
Serve:
Pile the seasoned fries onto a plate and serve with a side of warm nacho cheese sauce for dipping.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4. Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Loaded Nacho Fries: Top with seasoned ground beef, jalapeños, sour cream, and pico de gallo for a full meal.
Spicy version: Add chipotle powder or extra cayenne to the seasoning and cheese sauce.
Air fryer method: Cook the fries in an air fryer at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Cheese swap: Use pepper jack or smoked gouda for a unique twist on the nacho sauce.
Vegetarian toppings: Add black beans, grilled peppers, or avocado for a meatless version.
Storage/Reheating
Fries are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat fries in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until crisp. Reheat cheese sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, or in short microwave bursts, adding a splash of milk if needed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, frozen fries work well—just bake or fry them and season as directed.
What makes Taco Bell Nacho Fries unique?
The seasoning blend—paprika, chili powder, and cumin—gives them their signature Mexican-inspired flavor.
Can I make the fries without deep frying?
Yes, you can bake or air fry them for a lighter option. Just make sure they’re crispy before adding seasoning.
What kind of cheese should I use for the sauce?
A blend of sharp cheddar and American or processed cheese gives the best texture and flavor.
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, store it in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of milk before serving.
Are Taco Bell Nacho Fries spicy?
They’re mildly spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne or hot sauce.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use plant-based cheese, non-dairy milk, and skip the butter or use vegan alternatives.
How do I keep the fries crispy?
Serve immediately after cooking, and avoid stacking them too high or covering them.
Can I double the cheese sauce?
Absolutely. It stores well and is great for nachos, pretzels, or dipping veggies.
What’s the best way to serve these?
Serve in a basket or tray with cheese sauce on the side—or drizzle it right over the fries for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
Taco Bell Nacho Fries are a crave-worthy, flavor-packed snack that’s easy to recreate at home. Whether you’re making them as a side dish, game-day appetizer, or movie night treat, they deliver bold spice and cheesy goodness in every bite. Once you try them homemade, you might never go back to the drive-thru version again
Taco Bell Nacho Fries are crispy, seasoned fries paired with a creamy, cheesy nacho sauce. Packed with bold, Mexican-inspired flavors, they’re the ultimate snack or side dish you can easily recreate at home.
Ingredients
2 large russet potatoes (or 1 lb frozen fries)
Vegetable oil, for frying or baking
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
For the Nacho Cheese Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup American cheese or Velveeta, cubed
Salt, to taste
Cayenne pepper or hot sauce, to taste (optional)
Instructions
If using fresh potatoes, wash, peel, and cut into thin fries. Soak in cold water for 30 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or large skillet. Fry potatoes in batches for 3–5 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and cayenne.
Toss hot fries with the seasoning mix immediately after frying or baking.
For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Gradually whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add cheddar and American cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and cayenne or hot sauce to taste.
Serve seasoned fries with warm nacho cheese sauce on the side or drizzled on top.
Notes
Use frozen fries as a shortcut—bake or air fry and season the same way.For extra flavor, try pepper jack or smoked cheese in the sauce.To make it spicier, increase cayenne or add chipotle powder to the seasoning.Air fryer method: Cook at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, shaking halfway.Cheese sauce can be doubled and used for other dishes like nachos or pretzels.
